Solar Energy

Not only do the longer days, sunny days increase our personal energy levels, it can create clean renewable electric power.

"A brighter future for Jefferson County is in the hands of our citizens and our PUD.  Together we can develop a strong commitment to solar and other alternative power generation systems, good for us and for those who will follow"  Tony De Leo



Today, I had the opportunity to learn how far solar power generation has come as compared to the simple solar panels I had on my RV to keep the batteries charges.  Mr. Jeff Randall, of Power Trip Energy Corporation, Port Townsend, took time from his busy schedule to share some of his vast knowledge of,  and experience with, the expanding possibilities, and financial benefits, of harnessing the sun to provide for our electrical needs.

These advanced, far more efficient solar systems are an ecologically responsible, renewable source of power for our homes and businesses.  They can even provide excess power, sending it to the grid to help provide for the energy needs of our community.  They produce no harmful emissions, do not require large hydro dams and do not create the nuclear waste (spent fuel rods) or the potential disasters,such as Chernobyl,  associated with nuclear power generation.

From my research, other PUD's, including our neighbor, Clallam County PUD, have committed to providing incentives and support for individuals and businesses considering alternate energy generation, including working with a lender, First Federal, to arrange low cost loans for the installation of solar systems.  State and federal financial incentives are also available for the initial installation and continuing system use.

Jefferson County has the highest per capita number of utility customers with grid-tied renewable energy systems (solar photovoltaic) in the state, nearly 1%.  Think of the potential for growth should our, OUR, PUD commit to a strong support program in this area.  The benefits to our county would include power dollars kept here, local jobs created in the alternate energy field and the reduction of the future cost of expanding the capacity of the traditional power distribution system.

Thank you for stopping by, have a great Rhody!!!
Tony